‘Iranian Regime Does Not Reflect People Of Iran’: Marco Rubio Amid US Push For Talks With Tehran

Last Updated:February 05, 2026, 07:17 IST

He also pointed to recent protests in Iran, driven largely by economic grievances, accusing the leadership of diverting national resources toward terrorism.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. (Reuters)

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Thursday said the Iranian regime does not represent the aspirations or culture of the Iranian people, stressing that there is a sharp disconnect between those who govern the country and its citizens.

“The Iranian regime does not reflect the people of Iran, nor their culture rooted within a deep history. I know of no other country where there’s a bigger difference between the people who lead the country and the people who live there," Rubio said.

Speaking at a press conference on the sidelines of the Critical Minerals Ministerial in Washington DC, Rubio said the United States remains open to engaging Iran in talks if Tehran is willing, even amid escalating tensions. He emphasised that Washington does not view dialogue as a concession or as legitimising the Iranian leadership.

“President Trump is willing to talk to, meet with and engage with anyone in the world. We don’t view meetings as a concession. We don’t view meetings as even a little legitimisation," Rubio said, adding that the US would be open to direct engagement with counterparts in the Iranian regime if an opportunity arises.

Rubio said any meaningful discussions would have to address key concerns, including Iran’s ballistic missile programme, its sponsorship of terrorist organisations across the region, its nuclear activities and the treatment of its own people. “In order for talks to actually lead to something meaningful, they will have to include certain things," he said, outlining the issues that would need to be on the agenda.

He also pointed to recent protests in Iran, driven largely by economic grievances, accusing the leadership of diverting national resources toward terrorism and proxy groups instead of improving citizens’ lives.

“The fundamental problem that Iran faces—the regime faces right now—is what the people are on the streets complaining about," Rubio said, arguing that the government is unable to address these concerns because of its priorities.

Reiterating that the US preference remains a peaceful resolution, Rubio said Washington is ready to test whether diplomacy is possible. “If the Iranians want to meet, we’re ready. They’ve expressed an interest in meeting and talking… I’m not sure you can reach a deal with these guys, but we’re going to try to find out," he said, adding that President Donald Trump continues to favour dialogue over conflict.

News world ‘Iranian Regime Does Not Reflect People Of Iran’: Marco Rubio Amid US Push For Talks With Tehran

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